As the winter months approach, our homes are filled with the warm and inviting aromas of freshly baked bread. And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a delicious and festive loaf? From classic cinnamon swirls to creative combinations like peppermint chocolate babka, these 20 holiday bread recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your friends and family.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a sweet treat to enjoy on its own, this collection has something for everyone. With flavors ranging from spicy gingerbread to sweet caramel, there’s a recipe here to satisfy any holiday craving.
Cinnamon Swirl Holiday Bread
Start your holiday celebrations with a deliciously sweet and aromatic bread that’s sure to become a new tradition. This Cinnamon Swirl Holiday Bread is an easy-to-make treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the comfort of yeast dough, and the sweetness of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Orange Christmas Bread
This sweet and tangy bread is the perfect addition to your holiday table. Fresh cranberries and orange zest add a festive touch to this moist and flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Eggnog Brioche Loaf
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this indulgent Eggnog Brioche Loaf. With its soft, buttery crumb and sweet eggnog flavor, this bread is perfect for serving at breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup eggnog
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Gradually add flour to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in melted butter and eggnog until smooth.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread Spiced Pull-Apart Bread
Warm up with the aroma of gingerbread and spices filling your home, as you make this tender and delicious pull-apart bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt to the mixture. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour to the mixture, kneading until a sticky dough forms.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Babka
A refreshing twist on the classic babka, this Peppermint Chocolate Babka combines the sweetness of chocolate with the cooling zip of peppermint. Perfect for a festive treat or holiday gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (or peppermint extract to taste)
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and softened butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out half of the dough to fit the loaf pan. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies (or drizzle with peppermint extract).
6. Roll out remaining dough to fit the loaf pan. Place on top of filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over top and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Holiday Wreath Bread
Get into the holiday spirit with this delicious and festive Pumpkin Spice Holiday Wreath Bread! This sweet bread is perfect for a Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering, and its wreath shape makes it a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Maple Glazed Pecan Stollen
This traditional German Christmas bread gets a sweet and nutty twist with the addition of maple glaze and toasted pecans. Perfect as a holiday gift or served warm on Christmas morning, this stollen is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans
– Maple glaze: 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let cool before glazing with maple syrup and powdered sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls
Warm up your fall season with these scrumptious Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider. Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, apple cider, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Spread with cinnamon sugar mixture.
6. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each roll.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cherry Almond Holiday Bread
This festive bread combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, creating a perfect holiday treat. With its moist texture and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cherries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough and mix in melted butter, cherries, almonds, and orange zest.
7. Shape into a loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Focaccia
Experience the simplicity of Italian flavors with this aromatic Rosemary Garlic Focaccia recipe. This classic Italian flatbread is elevated by the pungency of garlic and the earthy essence of rosemary, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, salads, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, and rosemary to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Rum Raisin Bread
Add a touch of warmth and spice to your morning routine with this delicious Spiced Rum Raisin Bread. The sweet and sticky aroma of raisins and the subtle hint of rum will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist a slice (or two!).
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup spiced rum (such as Captain Morgan)
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, spiced rum, raisins, melted butter, egg, and cinnamon; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Panettone
A classic Italian sweet bread, Panettone is a festive and flavorful dessert perfect for holidays or special occasions. This Vanilla Bean Panettone recipe combines the richness of butter and eggs with the warmth of vanilla to create a moist and aromatic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add flour to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Gradually add the yeast mixture and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramel Stuffed Holiday Brioche
Elevate your holiday spread with this rich and buttery brioche, filled with a velvety caramel center. Perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
– Caramel filling (recipe below)
Caramel Filling:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine yeast, warm milk, and sugar in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add flour and salt. Knead dough for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Spread caramel filling, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Fold dough over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Holiday Loaf
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your holiday gatherings with this moist and delicious lemon poppy seed loaf. Perfect for serving at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dark Chocolate Cherry Bread
Moist and flavorful, this dark chocolate cherry bread is perfect for a sweet treat or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
– 1 ounce dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, cherries, dark chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cardamom Saffron Holiday Bread
This sweet bread is infused with the warmth of cardamom and the subtle earthiness of saffron, making it a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, cardamom, and saffron-infused water.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Walnut Date Holiday Loaf
A sweet and savory loaf that combines the warmth of walnuts with the natural sweetness of dates, perfect for a cozy holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add chopped walnuts and dates to the wet ingredients; stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
This moist and aromatic bread is perfect for the fall season. The addition of browned butter gives it a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of pumpkin perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Orange Cranberry Nut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the tanginess of orange and cranberries with the crunch of toasted nuts, making it a perfect treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, egg, yogurt, orange juice, cranberries, and walnuts. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Glazed Gingerbread Loaf
This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet treat. The addition of crystallized ginger gives it a warm, spicy flavor that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, chopped ginger, buttermilk, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious and festive bread recipes! From classic cinnamon swirl to creative combinations like peppermint chocolate babka, there’s something for everyone. Try making a cranberry orange Christmas bread or an eggnog brioche loaf for a taste of the season. Or go traditional with gingerbread spiced pull-apart bread or maple glazed pecan stollen. And don’t forget sweet treats like apple cider cinnamon rolls and caramel stuffed holiday brioche. Whatever your preference, these recipes are sure to bring joy to your holiday table.